Education & Insight for Mental Health Professionals

Assessing for Family of Dysfunction Origin

In order to better understand clients’ destructive behaviors, distorted cognitions, or shame-based, negative affect, clinicians understand the importance of putting clients’ “symptoms” and struggles in a historical context. Learn three important trauma informed questions that will help to safely shed light on clients’ family-of-origin experiences.

Intellectualizations vs. Emotional Connection

Learn why many clients present trauma-based experiences with emotional detachment and the importance of not pathologizing this in treatment.

Exploring the Healing Gifts of Nature’s Garden

There is a strong body of research confirming that direct contact with nature increases mental health and psychological and spiritual development.

Why you Should Integrate Spirituality into Psychotherapy

Many clients are afraid to openly process their anger towards God, a loss of faith, or disconnection from their childhood religious practices.

Guilt vs. Shame: The Fundamental Differences

Understand the difference between guilt and shame.

Announcing a New Location for The Ferentz Institute

We are excited to announce the relocation of The Ferentz Institute beginning this Fall semester!

Unconditional Positive Regard & Pets for Clients With Trauma

Pets can bring an amazing reparative experience to clients who've endured trauma.

Why Mental Health Awareness Month is So Crucial

When we focus on a person’s mental health, we look at the ways in which it impacts their thoughts, emotions, moods, ability to relate to others, efficacy at work and school, and their behavioral choices.

An Important Metaphor for Therapy

As I walked my dog in the neighborhood, I was struck by the rebirth of foliage that was either starting to reveal its budding flowers or was already showing off its brilliant yellow and pink blossoms.

In Loving Memory of My Father

My father was an incredibly loving, compassionate, and caring man.

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Lisa Ferentz, LCSW

Lisa Ferentz, LSCW-C DAPA, is a recognized expert in the strengths-based, de-pathologized treatment of trauma and has been in private practice for over 33 years. She presents workshops and keynote addresses nationally and internationally and is a clinical consultant to practitioners and mental health agencies worldwide. She has been an Adjunct Faculty member at several Universities and is the Founder of The Ferentz Institute.

Lisa is the author of “Treating Self-Destructive Behaviors in Traumatized Clients: A Clinician’s Guide,” “Letting Go of Self-Destructive Behaviors: A Workbook of Hope and Healing,” and “Finding Your Ruby Slippers: Transformative Life Lessons From the Therapist’s Couch.” She also is a contributing writer for mental health-related blogs and websites, including Psychologytoday.com.

To learn more about Lisa, click here.

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